THE 2026 tobacco marketing season will commence on March 4, with auction sales opening first, while contract tobacco sales will begin a day later.
Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) chief executive officer Emmanuel Matsvaire confirmed the development, saying the industry was ready for the start of the selling season.
“Contract tobacco sales will officially open on Thursday, March 5, following the commencement of auction sales on March 4,” he said.
“We have put all the necessary measures in place to ensure a smooth and orderly marketing process.”
Matsvaire said stakeholders were encouraged to familiarise themselves with the opening dates and ensure that all the golden leaf delivered to the floors meets the required standards.
“We are urging farmers to properly grade and bale their crop in line with TIMB regulations to maximise value and maintain quality,” he said.
“The board will continue to monitor compliance to safeguard the integrity of the marketing system.”
The marketing season is expected to attract strong interest from merchants and contractors, with tobacco remaining one of Zimbabwe’s major foreign currency earners.
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